TDU: "Sharp Contrast"

[Graveyard]

On 2/14/26, just as it became public, TDU did report on the Griswold/Harren story, with the headline “Former IBT Vice President Charged with Corruption.”

I guess “FORMER” sounds better than under O’Brien’s leadership.

In the predicted TDU PR spin, the article compares O’Brien’s action that he “…pressed Griswold and Harren to resign from all union positions” that “Stands in “Sharp Contrast” to the protective treatment that top leaders got in the Hoffa era when they faced corruption charges.” Then TDU rolls out their longtime favorite poster child “Rome Aloise.” (No, I do not support Rome’s actions.)

Comparing The “reformer” O’Brien to “old guard” Hoffa is an extremely low bar. At least Hoffa (Can’t believe I am saying this) knew what political party doesn't attack unions/workers.

Let’s take a look at TDU’s “Sharp Contrast.” A quick internet search reveals, a TDU post on August 15, 2016, “Hoffa’s Western Rep Investigated for Embezzlement, Andy Marshall, Local 104 is under investigation for potential embezzlement of union funds.”

According to the IIO Subpoena: Case 1:88-cv-04486-LAP Document 4478 Filed 04/01/16:

#4 “The IIO has initiated an investigation into Teamsters Local [104] concerning, among other things embezzlement by Local officers.”
#6 “There were three full-time officers: Andy Marshall was the Secretary Treasurer and principal Officer for the local. Frank Mendoza was the Local’s President. Karla Schumann was the was Vice President of the Local.
#11 “…investigators form the Chief IIO conducted a review of the books and records of the local office in Phoenix. They discovered that many of the local’s records, including monthly credit card statements for both the Chase MasterCard account and BBVA Visa card account were missing.”
#12 “It was also discovered that there was a pattern at the Local to pay routinely outstanding credit card bills without the required receipts summited by the individual cardholder(s).”
#13 “ To date, the Local has not produced copies of its missing, yet paid, credit card statements.”

An in-depth internet search provides no additional information on alleged charges. Perhaps I missed something.

At some point Andy Marshall leaves Local 104 and is hired as a Business Agent at Local 572.

Karla Schumann was unanimously endorsed [By Local 104 E-Board?] as the Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 104 in March 2017

Effective November 4, 2025, Griswold stepped down as Local 986 principal officer, Joint Council 42 President, and International Union Vice President At-Large.

On December 2, 2025, Karla Schumann was sworn in as an International Western Region Vice President on the General Executive Board.

Is there still a dark cloud hanging over Karla Schumann? As a “Full time Officer” was she involved in the credit card embezzlement at local 104? What happened to “Case 1:88-cv-04486-LAP Document 4478 Filed 04/01/16?” Was Karla Schumann vetted before appointed to her new position replacing embezzler Griswold ? Did O’Brien know?

Here’s what is known, the old TDU in “Sharp Contrast” to the new TDU, would find and printed the answers to the above questions on the front page, above the fold.


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[Bob Randall]

Look. I agree with all of this. However, it does frustrate me trying to figure out what the "ask" is with publicizing all of the anti-TDU sentiments. The organization itself does not exist, nor was it created, as a result of an election. In other words, the constant publication of the sentiments does not harm the organization (as I can tell). Nor can it result in the organization's inability to exist. It has continuously grown greatly in spite of far greater attacks for fifty years. It has grown even more grossly as a result of its "coalition" with the IBT (O'Brien). So, I just don't see an expected outcome. The IBT (under SOB) is the problem. Take care of the SOB problem and the TDU "problem" is solved. I wish that there was a current campaign with a snowball's chance to deal with the real problem. I'd volunteer my energy and experience in a heartbeat even though success would lead to TDU's change in character. The organization would have no choice. It frustrates me that the anti-TDU community (excepting Old Guard remnants) and the Hooker camp could not find a way to cooperate and deal with the SOB problem. Cuz...again...SOB (AND THE GEB) IS THE REAL PROBLEM that can be solved. Not TDU. The factions that are out there would have needed to accept a few differences, recognize and accept some central leadership and make a plan to be carried out. The necessary characteristics are not there right now. But, hey! Keep beating up TDU and your laptop. At least it feels good, right?

[AlJackson1962!]

Brother Randall: TDU was founded as a democratic organization. The Oxford dictionary defines "democratic" as: "relating to or supporting democracy or its principles." Barring TDU members that disagree with the four TDU ISC Co-chairs, is not democratic. Barring candidates for IBT office (Richard Hooker) from speaking at the 2025 TDU Convention is not democratic. Posting news of Teamster corruption on the TDU website that states "Griswold and Harren will now be held publicly accountable for their misconduct. That transparency strengthens our Union." is a spin that demands accountability unto itself. There would have been no transparency if not for the decision by the IIO. O'Brien and Zuckerman were not transparent in advising the members of the sweetheart forced retirement deal. Now the entire GEB must reassess the initial slap on the wrist approved by O'Brien and Zuckerman. Democracy is democracy, meaning all who participate in a democratic system or democratic organization are held to the same standard. TDU is part of the problem; I disagree with you. TDU is a part of the fabric ("Coalition") that supports the direction the IBT has taken under O'Brien. Maybe there should be a rally wherein past and present TDU members publicly burn their TDU membership cards as anti- Vietnam War protesters burned their draft cards back in the 60's.

[Bob Randall]

Dave...I never said that TDU is not a party to the problem. I feel as if my point...again...is intentionally dismissed (ignored). In spite of the constant smashing of laptops with reference to TDU...none of it affects the real problem in any material way. All of the material actions, non-actions, whatever, pertaining to the IBT are the responsibility of the IBT's. Yet many on this site go immediately to the TDU "problem". Again, none of that affects the real problem in any material way. None. Cripes! It gets old bordering on pathetic. I'm not saying that you, personally, are unwilling to put in some effort toward a positive change. If you choose to take it that way....well. It simply frustrates the bejesus out of me to see constant complaining and whining about something that does nothing to address the real problem in any material way. But, hey! At least it serves me cuz it feels good, right? I'll shut up now.

[Gimliboston9]

Let me say this clearly and simply, telling the truth about the difference between the way TDU covers O’Brien and the way they used to cover Hoffa is not beating up TDU it is simply pointing out the SHARP CONTRAST. It does NOT feel good at all it actually is a sad feeling to look back on the difference.

[UnionistIBT]

A few members still believe that TDU is an independent voice in the Teamsters even though I can't remember a time when they didn't run interference for OZ. These are mostly newer members looking for a TDU that no longer exists. The TDU endorsement of anything ain't what it used to be and they need to be held accountable just like any other organization that claims to represent the interests of working people.

I appreciate Graveyard calling out this latest hypocracy in detail and with documentation.

[Graveyard]

Hi Brother Randall and others, thanks for your comments and support, it is appreciated!

Brother Randall’s statements “Take care of the SOB problem and the TDU problem is solved” and his follow up comment, “It simply frustrates the bejesus out of me to see constant complaining and whining about something that does nothing to address the real problem in any material way.” are interesting points!

I will hopefully address both comments.

While I feel and understand Brother Randall’s frustration, I am not sure what one person can do to change the direction of the Teamsters. In my case, I believe TDU has left a massive vacuum where it used to shine a light on wrongdoing or lack of leadership within this great union, I feel compelled to pickup some of that slack the best I can.

Below is my opinion why. While TDU continues to report on issues, coverage tends to continually shift blame away from Obrien’s failures, generally by omission. A recent example is TDU’s “Carol Tomé Takes Aim at Union Jobs” posted on February 10, 2026. It’s easy for members to buy into blaming UPS for current events. However, I believe the root cause of today’s UPS issues are the lack of protections not secured in O’Brien’s “Historic” 2023 UPS contract. Something TDU has never, to my knowledge, truthfully reported on.

TDU lives on by taking advantage of its past history and new friends, its 50^th anniversary events and current revenue sources are proof of that. Unlike longtime reformers, most members today that do pay attention, willing or unknowingly rely on “Teamster Voice” as their information stream of what reform looks like without the benefit of having been directly involved in the fight of real REFORM.

I respectfully disagree with Brother Randall comment ““Take care of the SOB problem and the TDU problem is solved.” When TDU chose to support the OZ Slate, they were well informed as earlier they had reported on O’Brien’s track record of retaliation, threating members, suspension, Top Chief and that he was formerly a close ally and top loyalist to Hoffa Jr serving on his leadership slate in 2016 and supporting Hoffa Jr in previous elections. TDU was not duped, whether financial or whatever their reasons are, the TDU leadership willingly chose to abandon its well beaten path of reform.

Since TDU has tasted “Success” apparently has no desire to return to the struggles of true reform. The recent election protest claims TDU denied its own members and Hooker admittance, while soliciting attendance announcing candidate O’Brien would address the convention. The complaint also states “The 2024 LM-2s filed by local unions to which members of the OZ slate belong reveal those locals contributed $190,917 to TDU/TRF…” One could think that TDU doesn’t care what names are on checks as long as the money rolls in. I am doubtful removing SOB results in the return of the old TDU.

Along with TDU’s lack of critical reporting, more importantly, is the evaporation of the opposing structure required to achieve true reform. No longer can members rely on an army of beleivers campaigning for reform candidates at plant gates, gathering of signatures for accreditation, help with campaign protests, or any component of actively keeping reform alive and well. Could members running against locals supporting OZ expect any genuine support without of fear of TDU informing OZ of details?

I make no apologies for repeatedly shining a light on TDU. To me, their sell out for whatever reasons has single handily, willingly, largely destroyed the very thing they once stood for, holding Officers accountable to the membership.

[jerseymike78]

Concise, factual, and an honest assessment !

One has to wonder why on the 50th anniversary of TDU the founders and longtime members were not featured speakers. Could the reason be that they might go off script and say something that might offend or expose the new “ cash cows” that fund TDU ?

[WTF891]

Yes, and as to Brother Randall I respect him and all he has done in and for this union. Having said that TDU has abandoned their core principles in exchane for " a seat at the table" and increased revenue from the OZholes. There is nary a remnant of this once respected organization, it's merely a storefront without merchadise. the cash register still open for business. It's not bashing it's reality.

[AlJackson1962!]

I received my Teamster magazine in the mail today. What do I read from our General President only days after the Griswold/Harren sweetheart retirement deal is blown up by the IBT Investigations Officer?

O'Brien writes: "Transparency and straight talk have fueled historic organizing victories, record contracts, and powerful strike actions across the country."

"TRANSPARENCY AND STRAIGHT TALK" ? The entire magazine looks like a Republican Party campaign pamphlet. We have a Teamsters General President and 26 of 27 other General Executive Board members that are actively campaigning (or are silently complicit) in advocating that our Union cut it's own throat!



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[Bob Randall]

Ugghhh! The above comments are still redundant. Redundant, over and over again, redundant. What's the point? The smashing of the laptops in reference to TDU are nothing more than self-serving at this point. Cripes! Do something more than serving your anger. Here...let me put it this way. If any Teamsters, retirees, members of the Labor Movement choose to organize and begin to provide the resources as a means of replacing the "old" TDU you can count on my support as a means of furthering. I've knocked on thousands of doors. Held hundreds of small group meetings, spoke openly about the disease that is business unionism, etc. Other than that...wtf are you trying to accomplish? It's repeatedly pathetic at this point. So far, whatever it is it ain't working!

[overnighter]

SOB committed to destroying TDU and he succeeded. Time to move on. TDU is dead.

[Nickjamesups]

Remember when Khrushchev said “ We will take America without firing a shot…we will destroy you from within”?
This was accomplished at TDU , it was destroyed from within. With the leadership manipulating the endorsement of Obrien with claims that he was a born again reformer. All for Paff’s seat at the table.

[X-TDUer]

Exactly!!!!